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The Anti-Cancer Fight with the Wellness Menu

By Michelle Sue, Kenneth W. Yip

The Anti-Cancer Fight with the Wellness Menu


 

Abstract

This directed case study engages students in an accessible discussion of cancer pathogenesis, prevention, and risk factors. Students are introduced to “William,” a middle-aged man worried about his cancer risk. William seeks out his family physician to address his concerns and to learn about ways to decrease his risk of developing cancer. Students learn about the pathogenesis of cancer, including how cancerous cells differ from normal cells, how cancer arises, and how it progresses. Students examine both controllable and uncontrollable risk factors for cancer development, with a focus on nutrition and the design of an anti-cancer menu for a week’s worth of meals. The case study is written for lower-division undergraduate students and is accessible for both science and non-science majors. It introduces fundamental biology concepts and builds a strong foundation for students to critically evaluate online sources, an invaluable skill.

   

Date Posted

05/16/2024

Overview

Objectives

  • Describe what cancer is and how it forms.
  • Differentiate between controllable and uncontrollable risk factors for cancer.
  • List both controllable and uncontrollable risk factors for cancer.
  • List characteristics of normal and cancerous cells.
  • Understand the importance of preventative measures for cancer.
  • List and apply the CRAP test to correctly assess source credibility.
  • List anti-cancer foods.
  • Consider the ethical considerations of preventative cancer measures at both the corporation and community level.

Keywords

Cancer; nutrition; disease; prevention; oncology; diet; cell cycle; lifestyle; carcinogen; tumor; benign; malignant

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Cell Biology
Genetics / Heredity
Interdisciplinary Sciences
Medicine (General)
Molecular Biology
Nutrition
Physiology
Public Health

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Directed, Discussion

 

 

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